About Animal Medicines

Vaccines

Animals receive vaccines for the same reason that humans do: to prevent diseases. Vaccinating animals reduces animal suffering, reduces the transmission of microorganisms in the animal population, and is often more affordable than paying for the treatment of sick animals. Pets receive vaccines for infectious diseases such as rabies, parvovirus, distemper, and hepatitis.

Livestock animals like turkeys, chickens, cattle and pigs are vaccinated to protect against diseases like rotavirus, E. coli, pinkeye, and brucellosis. Vaccinations keep individual animals, flocks and herds, and people healthy.

Animal vaccines are part of a category of animal medicines known as veterinary biologics, which work primarily by stimulating an animal’s immune system to prevent or treat diseases. Veterinary biologics are regulated by the USDA Center for Veterinary Biologics, part ofthe USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. AHI members work closely with the USDA and invest millions of dollars in the development of effective vaccines to control and eradicate disease in animals.